Visits During Notice: Tenant Rights in France

What does the law say?

In France, Law No. 89-462 of 6 July 1989 governs residential leases and defines the rights of tenants and landlords during the notice period^[1]. The landlord may organize visits to relet the property, but must respect privacy, avoid entries without consent and propose reasonable hours.

Tenant rights and obligations

Here are the main points to know as a tenant:

• Allow entry (entry) for visits at agreed times.
• Request reasonable notice and set appointments (time).
• Take photos and keep evidence (photo) during visits.
• Send written notification (form) if you refuse a visit or note a breach.

Preparing for visits

Before visits, propose reasonable time slots and record all written communications or texts. For inventory reports and model lease forms, consult official information and forms^[2]. Prepare the property, report any necessary repairs and, if possible, accompany the visit to protect your belongings.

• Ensure the property is safe and report repairs (repair).
• Provide contact details to agree on time slots (contact).
• Prepare clear access and facilitate visitor passage (move-out).

If the landlord does not comply

If you suffer intrusions, repeated off-hour visits or pressure to leave the property, immediately collect evidence and witness statements. You can contact the departmental conciliation commission, attempt an amicable resolution, then, if necessary, bring the matter before the tribunal judiciaire^[3]. A formal written notice to the landlord documents your request.

FAQ

Can the landlord enter without my consent?

No, except in an emergency (fire, serious leak). For relet visits, the landlord must obtain your consent and propose time slots.

What time slots are considered reasonable for a visit?

Daytime hours on weekdays or Saturday morning are generally considered reasonable unless otherwise agreed with the tenant.

What to do in case of abuse during visits?

Gather evidence and witnesses, send a formal notice, contact the departmental conciliation commission and then the tribunal judiciaire if necessary.

How to

1. Request the proposed dates and times in writing and keep the message.
2. Take photos and notes during visits to build a file.
3. If there is a problem, contact the departmental conciliation commission (CDC) for mediation.
4. Bring the matter before the tribunal judiciaire if amicable attempts fail.

Key takeaways

• The landlord may show the property but must respect your privacy.
• Always keep evidence and written communications.

Help and support / Resources

• Forms: standard lease and inventory report — Service-public
• Law No. 89-462 of 6 July 1989 — Legifrance
• Departmental conciliation commission — Service-public

1. [1] Law No. 89-462 of 6 July 1989 — Legifrance
2. [2] Forms and inventory report — Service-public
3. [3] Departmental conciliation commission — Service-public